In the competitive world of youth sports, few athletes shine as brightly as Charleyse McIntyre. Hailing from St. Clair Shores, Michigan, Charleyse has made an indelible mark on the soccer scene, showcasing not only her remarkable skills but also her commitment and passion for the game. As a player for the Fraser Soccer Club and Lake Shore High School, she has earned recognition from coaches and peers alike, recently making the prestigious EXACT 11 Watchlist for her standout performance at the EXACT Sports Midwest Girls Academic ID Camp.

The Journey Begins

Charleyse McIntyre’s journey in soccer began at a young age, when she would accompany her older brother to games and practices. Observing him on the field ignited a spark within her, leading her to pick up the sport herself. “I grew up watching my older brother play, and he taught me how to play when we were younger,” Charleyse recalls. The formative years spent honing her skills, combined with the invaluable lessons learned from her brother, laid the foundation for a promising athletic career.

From those early days, her love for soccer has only grown. Charleyse appreciates not just the sport itself, but the camaraderie it fosters. “I love the sport because of the people that I have met throughout my journey and the bonds that I have created. This sport brings people together no matter who you are,” she explains. Her connection to the game and the friendships formed within it have become central to her identity as an athlete.

All-Around Athlete

Charleyse is not just a soccer player; she is an all-around athlete participating in six sports throughout the year. In addition to her commitments on the soccer field as an outside mid, forward, and outside back, she also engages in other sports that complement her athleticism. This versatility is a defining characteristic of her career. “I think something that makes me different from other recruits is that I play six sports throughout the year and play soccer year-round,” she states.

Her ability to excel in multiple sports has contributed to her development as a soccer player, enhancing her agility, coordination, and overall physical fitness. Charleyse has found a way to balance her love for sports with her academic responsibilities, maintaining an impressive GPA of 3.8. This balance demonstrates not only her dedication as an athlete but also her commitment to her education, a quality increasingly appreciated in the world of sports.

Recognizing the Talent

Charleyse’s talent culminated in her selection for the EXACT 11 Watchlist, which acknowledges top athletes at the EXACT Sports Midwest Girls Academic ID Camp. This recognition is no small feat, as the camp attracts numerous skilled players from the region. Coaches recognized Charleyse’s explosive speed and her skillful versatility on the field, factors that make her stand out. “My biggest strength is my speed,” she says. Her capability to perform well in various positions speaks volumes about her adaptability and intelligence as a player.

The camp, held from July 19 to July 21, 2024, provided a platform for Charleyse to showcase her skills in front of college coaches. The experience was both enlightening and validating, allowing her to learn from coaches and fellow players. Being highlighted as a standout athlete amidst such a competitive environment is a testament to her hard work and determination.

Goals and Aspirations

Now, with an eye toward the future, Charleyse aspires to compete at the collegiate level. She envisions being part of a team that feels like family, where strong bonds and teamwork are paramount. “I want to be on a team that is very competitive and driven to win,” she shares. Her top two schools of interest, Grand Valley State University and the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, are institutions known for their strong soccer programs. However, for Charleyse, the ideal college experience also involves connecting with coaches who prioritize building relationships with their players.

Her ambitions extend beyond just playing; she desires a holistic college experience that emphasizes personal and athletic growth. The right environment, one where she can thrive on and off the field, is crucial for Charleyse as she navigates the next steps in her athletic journey.

The Heart of a Teammate

Charleyse’s character as a teammate stands out as much as her athletic prowess. “I think I am a great teammate because I am hardworking, passionate, and determined,” she asserts. These attributes resonate with her peers and coaches, reminding them that success in sports is not solely about individual performance but also about fostering a supportive team atmosphere.

In a sport as dynamic and team-oriented as soccer, these qualities are essential. Charleyse’s dedication to her teammates mirrors her commitment to the game itself. She understands that the bonds forged through shared experiences on the field fuel a team’s success, and she embodies this spirit in her play.

The Impact of Community and Support

Charleyse acknowledges the importance of community in her development as an athlete. Growing up in Michigan, she has been fortunate to have the support of her family, friends, and coaches who have encouraged her growth both as a player and as an individual. This network of support has been pivotal in her journey, allowing her to flourish against the backdrop of competition.

The Fraser Soccer Club and Lake Shore High School have provided a platform for her to showcase her talents, and the guidance from her coaches has shaped her as both a player and a person. This support system has instilled in her the values of teamwork, perseverance, and respect — principles that will carry her into the future.

The Road Ahead

As she looks toward the horizon, Charleyse McIntyre is poised for greatness in the world of soccer. With her recent recognition on the EXACT 11 Watchlist and her determination to excel at the collegiate level, her trajectory is undoubtedly bright. Her efforts on and off the field reflect a true dedication to her craft, and she embodies the spirit of a champion.

In addition to her immediate goals, Charleyse dreams of leaving a lasting legacy. She hopes to inspire younger players, particularly young girls, to pursue their passions and never shy away from challenging themselves. The lessons learned through her journey are ones she wishes to pass on, empowering the next generation of athletes to believe in their potential.

Conclusion

Charleyse McIntyre stands as a testament to hard work, passion, and the love of the game. As she navigates her athletic journey, her accomplishments, such as making the EXACT 11 Watchlist, underscore her talent and determination. The bonds she has forged and the experiences she has gained set her apart as not just an athlete, but as a role model and a beacon of inspiration in the world of women’s soccer. With her eyes set on the future, Charleyse is ready to carve her path, inspiring others along the way while pursuing her dreams on the soccer field.